Max Verstappen has called for a complete resurfacing of the Circuit of the Americas (COTA) track, labelling the current condition as “unacceptable.” The Red Bull driver expressed significant concerns regarding potential long-term spinal damage to competitors. His comments precede the United States Grand Prix this weekend in Austin, Texas.
Verstappen, a four-time world champion, stated that while he appreciates the circuit’s layout, the severity of the bumps poses a serious health risk. He recounted experiencing vertical loads exceeding 9G on his spine during the 2025 event.
This contrasts with typical cornering forces of 5-6G. Verstappen revealed that medical checks on his spine indicate the “bottom end doesn’t look that great.”
The Circuit of the Americas has a history of surface issues, primarily due to the expansive clay-like soils on which it is built. This geological characteristic causes ground movement, leading to the formation of bumps.
Previous attempts to address the problem include a significant resurfacing project in 2022. During this work, turns 2-10 and 12-16 were repaved, with concrete pads installed at turns 2 and 10 for reinforcement.
A second phase of resurfacing was completed in 2024, utilising over 18,076 tons of asphalt. This was done ahead of the FIA World Endurance Championship race in September 2024.
For the 2026 Grand Prix, organisers have again focused on specific sections. The stretch between turns 9 and 11 has been resurfaced, and bumps approaching turns 12 and 19 have been smoothed.
Despite these efforts, Verstappen observed the track remained “incredibly bumpy” during the World Endurance Championship event held at COTA last month.
Lando Norris supported Verstappen’s stance, highlighting that the circuit’s condition falls short of the strict tolerances required for new track construction. Norris disclosed that he often takes headache tablets before driving at COTA due to the impacts.
George Russell echoed these concerns, suggesting that Formula 1 circuits should undergo resurfacing every two years to maintain adequate standards.
Russell explained that modern F1 cars operate with extremely low ride heights, often just 10mm from the ground at high speeds. This design characteristic means drivers feel every minor imperfection on the track surface.
The smaller sidewalls of the current 18-inch tyres further exacerbate the transmission of bumps to the drivers.
Verstappen argued that the soil composition should not serve as a perpetual excuse for the track’s condition. He insisted that a full track relaying, despite its cost and time implications, is the only viable long-term solution.
COTA holds a contract to host the United States Grand Prix until 2034, following an eight-year extension signed in October 2025. This agreement also included plans for new fan and hospitality upgrades for 2026.
Engineers must consider damper settings and overall car stiffness to manage the bumps. They also work to maximise ride height to ensure the car’s plank remains within legal wear limits post-race.
Verstappen enters the Austin event fourth in the 2026 Drivers’ Championship, 119 points behind leader Kimi Antonelli. He has secured five consecutive top-three finishes, including victories in Bahrain and Singapore.
